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Need server information

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  • Business Computing
  • Servers
Last response: in Business Computing
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December 11, 2013 11:47:11 AM

I work for an ambulance company and we are needing to upgrade our server. We currently use the server primarily for storage purposes. We have to write out run reports for every call. We run approximately 5,000 calls per year and need to keep a record of these calls for 7 years. The documents are a text document and a image file. Might be looking at around 100mb per file. These are just the run reports we have other business files as well. Im fairly tech savvy however my knowledge in servers is lacking. I dont know what questions to ask, or what i really need. we have 7 desktops and 6 laptops that need to be linked to the server. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

More about : server information

December 11, 2013 12:22:04 PM

Many companies use different programs to help with cataloging or containing a lot of the records and documents that you are explaining, but often times it's just a large collection of Microsoft Word documents or PDFs that need to be kept track of. The main thing I am curious about before making any suggestions, is there any software that you need to install and run on the server? If all you need to do is store miscellaneous files from various computers on one shared storage folder, then you can make due with a NAS device, but it is quite limited in overall functionality to only storing shared files. You're not going to be able to install a domain network from it (which is HIGHLY recommended given the size of your network and compliance with privacy regulations.) You also wouldn't be able to install any software on the system as it runs a highly-customized linux distribution and has power only enough for file sharing.

So, a full server solution might be the best way to go. Again, I don't really know what recommendations to make for you yet until we know more about specifically what needs you have with software and compatibility.
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December 11, 2013 12:52:31 PM

I need the server for file storage and backup, the computers must be able to print to our central printer, email capabilities and messaging would be nice, we would like to integrate our system with the police dispatching system, would like to be able to remote access through home computers, The laptops we use have electronic patient care reports that need to be saved on the server for record keeping, not sure how that will work. Again not really sure what information you need.
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Best solution

December 11, 2013 8:07:43 PM

The configuration that you are talking about now is getting much more complex, and not really covering just the server but also your networking configuration. Integrating your server access with the dispatch system is a networking subject and relies entirely on what type of software they are using, what type of operating system, compatibility, network protocols, etc. are all in play. Remote access, especially for the type of data that you are working with, is a VERY important thing to have locked down, and again is something that has to be done at the network level and not at your server given what you are looking at doing.

Just based on the information we have so far, you are going to need a server. A NAS alone will not do what you want to do except perhaps needing a NAS to act as a backup of your primary server when all is said and done. However, given that you are working with HIPAA compliance requirements (or similar laws depending upon where you live) and internetworking of multiple offices, services, and remote access, then this really isn't something that we on a forum will be able to assist with. You need to find a local technician that you can trust to help with consulting on your needs and ensure that it is implemented properly.

That's not the answer you want, I know, but there are MANY reasons why I'm saying this. First, a configuration within your network settings, domain, users, shares, etc. will end up being a nightmare trying to fix if not done properly the first time. I've seen customers who tried to piece things together themselves the first time, and then ended up having to spend twice their initial budget to have it fixed properly, often having to completely replace equipment they just purchased because it wasn't right. Unfortunately no one here, without having direct communication and access with you to see your specific scenario, details, etc. is going to be able to address those things. Additionally, if you do live in the U.S., because of HIPAA compliance, if it is found that your network is not protected adequately or that there has been a breech of data, it can be a fine of at least $250,000 per instance!

Contact a local consultant or technology firm that you trust, and see if they can at least assist you with consulting on your specific needs. That's really going to be the best way of getting what you need and having it set up properly given what you are wanting to do. I will try and offer the best help I can with questions you may have or information you need, but really that is the best piece of advice that I can offer to begin with.
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